Suarez: Players were hurt by pay cut accusations

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The striker says the players were the first to talk reductions

Barcelona striker Luis Suarez says the players have been hurt by the way the recent pay cuts at the club were handled.

The players announced earlier in the week they would be reducing their salaries by 70 per cent and helping cover employee wages due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Their statement also revealed frustration at criticism the announcement had not come earlier, and Suarez says the players were the first to talk about reductions.

“It hurts because we were the first people who wanted to reach an agreement. We were aware of what is happening worldwide. We know the situation the club is in at the income level, and what is happening in the world.

“But the time came and things began to be said. That the players did not want to understand. And that the handball players, and everyone had reached an agreement and we did not.

“But we had not reached the agreement because we were waiting to find the best solution for the club and for our benefit, and try to help others who were having a bad time.”

Source | Mundo Deportivo

President Josep Maria Bartomeu has said Lionel Messi told him from day one pay cuts would be needed, while reports have suggested the “Barçagate” saga from earlier this season was also on players’ minds when discussing salary reductions.

Source: barcablaugranes.com